EMDR Therapists in Hartland, WI

Photo of Beth McKay, MS, LPC, Counselor
Beth McKay
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartland, WI 53029
I offer both traditional talk-therapy, creative therapies, and/or brain based treatment modalities (I am an EMDR and Brainspotting trained clinician) to help you make the changes in your life that are meaningful to you!.
We all seek a life that is fulfilling and meaningful, but sometimes during our life's journey, we can come to feel disconnected from that source of meaning. Perhaps the stress and responsibilities of life become overwhelming, and what is meaningful gets lost in the busyness. Maybe a life event occurs (trauma/illness/death/divorce/etc.) that causes us to reevaluate everything we thought to be true. Maybe our relationships or our roles in life begin to shift making us question "What now?" My honor as a therapist is to walk with you as you rekindle that connection and create a life that intentionally honors what matters most to you.
I offer both traditional talk-therapy, creative therapies, and/or brain based treatment modalities (I am an EMDR and Brainspotting trained clinician) to help you make the changes in your life that are meaningful to you!.
We all seek a life that is fulfilling and meaningful, but sometimes during our life's journey, we can come to feel disconnected from that source of meaning. Perhaps the stress and responsibilities of life become overwhelming, and what is meaningful gets lost in the busyness. Maybe a life event occurs (trauma/illness/death/divorce/etc.) that causes us to reevaluate everything we thought to be true. Maybe our relationships or our roles in life begin to shift making us question "What now?" My honor as a therapist is to walk with you as you rekindle that connection and create a life that intentionally honors what matters most to you.
(262) 218-4541 View (262) 218-4541
Photo of Chris Ann Drosdick - Lifespan Psychotherapy, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, CSAC, ICS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lifespan Psychotherapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, CSAC, ICS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartland, WI 53029
I am also trained in CBT-I, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, EMDR and Gottman Relationship Counseling.
A safe place to sort it out is what Lifespan offers. We are a team of five therapists with different talents. Our theoretical experience includes: humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral and solution-focused theories. We also integrate nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness into our practice. Lifespan has depth in working with individuals who have experienced complex trauma & struggle w/ a borderline diagnosis.
I am also trained in CBT-I, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, EMDR and Gottman Relationship Counseling.
A safe place to sort it out is what Lifespan offers. We are a team of five therapists with different talents. Our theoretical experience includes: humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral and solution-focused theories. We also integrate nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness into our practice. Lifespan has depth in working with individuals who have experienced complex trauma & struggle w/ a borderline diagnosis.
(262) 757-7244 View (262) 757-7244
Photo of Anna Godiali, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Godiali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
If you feel down, stuck, or don't know how to move forward, it can help to find professional support—someone in your corner, to help you get your bearings again and find your way through the tough times. As a solution-focused and strengths-based therapist, I work with clients to understand their past, clarify their present, and support their goals moving forward, even through life’s hardest situations. I work with clients experiencing the effects of trauma using EMDR and mindfulness, targeting and reworking core beliefs to move individuals and couples forward in their relationships with themselves and others.
If you feel down, stuck, or don't know how to move forward, it can help to find professional support—someone in your corner, to help you get your bearings again and find your way through the tough times. As a solution-focused and strengths-based therapist, I work with clients to understand their past, clarify their present, and support their goals moving forward, even through life’s hardest situations. I work with clients experiencing the effects of trauma using EMDR and mindfulness, targeting and reworking core beliefs to move individuals and couples forward in their relationships with themselves and others.
(262) 384-5849 View (262) 384-5849
Photo of Sharon M Gaffney, MA, LPC, SAC, EMDR, Counselor
Sharon M Gaffney
Counselor, MA, LPC, SAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hartland, WI 53029
I am EMDR-certified, enjoy working with young adults to the elderly.
If the current situation has you trying to overcoming anxieties, depression, substance abuse, and eating disorders, my commitment to you is to support and empower you. My therapeutic approach is to build trusting relationships with my clients while helping them find healing life skills, and sustainable wellness. I view my work as a supporter who empowers you towards self-actualization.
I am EMDR-certified, enjoy working with young adults to the elderly.
If the current situation has you trying to overcoming anxieties, depression, substance abuse, and eating disorders, my commitment to you is to support and empower you. My therapeutic approach is to build trusting relationships with my clients while helping them find healing life skills, and sustainable wellness. I view my work as a supporter who empowers you towards self-actualization.
(262) 239-7933 View (262) 239-7933
Photo of Jennifer N Lila, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer N Lila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where my patients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools, they need to thrive Rather than just survive. I understand that each patient is individual and has individual needs. I use a person-centered approach. I am Certified in HeartMath, Moral Reconation Therapy, Trauma Professional Level 2, and EMDR. Now offering Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where my patients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools, they need to thrive Rather than just survive. I understand that each patient is individual and has individual needs. I use a person-centered approach. I am Certified in HeartMath, Moral Reconation Therapy, Trauma Professional Level 2, and EMDR. Now offering Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
(262) 218-4625 View (262) 218-4625
Photo of Erin M Macier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin M Macier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
CBT, EMDR, Narrative, Family Systems, IFS, Mindfulness, Play/ Art Therapy.
I love working with youth to help with self esteem and behavioral therapy. I use time trusted, evidence based modalities for successful and sustainable treatment. I love working with teens, young adults, and parents. All to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well to increase self-esteem and confidence. I also love helping families and couples with bonding and conflict resolution.
CBT, EMDR, Narrative, Family Systems, IFS, Mindfulness, Play/ Art Therapy.
I love working with youth to help with self esteem and behavioral therapy. I use time trusted, evidence based modalities for successful and sustainable treatment. I love working with teens, young adults, and parents. All to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well to increase self-esteem and confidence. I also love helping families and couples with bonding and conflict resolution.
(262) 332-4207 View (262) 332-4207
Photo of Bobby Sharp, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobby Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
Accepting New Clients! You tell yourself what happened to you wasn't real, but under the busyness of life you know it was. You see it coming up in you romantic relationships-the same type of person, the same conflict, the same experience that leaves you with a feeling like there's something wrong with you. Or, maybe you see it in your family relationships-wanting them to meet your needs and always being disappointed. Or, maybe you see it coming up in those moments of lost time-your mind spinning around past hurts. No matter how the trauma may surface, you can no longer live like this.
Accepting New Clients! You tell yourself what happened to you wasn't real, but under the busyness of life you know it was. You see it coming up in you romantic relationships-the same type of person, the same conflict, the same experience that leaves you with a feeling like there's something wrong with you. Or, maybe you see it in your family relationships-wanting them to meet your needs and always being disappointed. Or, maybe you see it coming up in those moments of lost time-your mind spinning around past hurts. No matter how the trauma may surface, you can no longer live like this.
(480) 400-1690 View (480) 400-1690
Photo of Meg Hammes, LCSW, CCTP II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Hammes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
Are you struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel that past traumas and negative life experiences have left you feeling unworthy of happiness? If your daily life is wearing you down, you may be seeking support to get to a better place. As a certified trauma professional, I use techniques to help people struggling with wounds from current and past relationships to move on from painful experiences.
Are you struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel that past traumas and negative life experiences have left you feeling unworthy of happiness? If your daily life is wearing you down, you may be seeking support to get to a better place. As a certified trauma professional, I use techniques to help people struggling with wounds from current and past relationships to move on from painful experiences.
(262) 205-2982 View (262) 205-2982

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of April Tonya Brown - Vacation Counseling - Couples Retreat by Dr. April, LMHC, CST, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Vacation Counseling - Couples Retreat by Dr. April
Counselor, LMHC, CST, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
The Therapists at Vacation Counseling have over 100+ years of experience and we utilized a variety of methods for couples, such as the Gottman Method, EMDR, Temperament Therapy, Solution-Focused, Intimacy Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are you wanting a personalized intimate retreat that focuses on your specific needs and goals in your relationship? A retreat that will heal the hurts and traumas in the relationship? Vacation counseling will help you and your relationship find a new perspective on how intimacy can help resolve conflicts in your relationship. We offer many different options to fit your needs, one couple at a time. We can provide you with in-person and online counseling where couples stay in exclusive, luxurious vacation rentals. Vacation Counseling can travel to your Vacation.
The Therapists at Vacation Counseling have over 100+ years of experience and we utilized a variety of methods for couples, such as the Gottman Method, EMDR, Temperament Therapy, Solution-Focused, Intimacy Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are you wanting a personalized intimate retreat that focuses on your specific needs and goals in your relationship? A retreat that will heal the hurts and traumas in the relationship? Vacation counseling will help you and your relationship find a new perspective on how intimacy can help resolve conflicts in your relationship. We offer many different options to fit your needs, one couple at a time. We can provide you with in-person and online counseling where couples stay in exclusive, luxurious vacation rentals. Vacation Counseling can travel to your Vacation.
(941) 759-5754 View (941) 759-5754
Photo of Lauri Gebhard - Mind body spirit program, PhD, Psychologist
Mind body spirit program
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? High blood pressure? chronic pain? PMS? Infertility? Cancer? Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. I have received specialty training in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center. I imploy innovative practices: EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation, to improve the lives of her patients.
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? High blood pressure? chronic pain? PMS? Infertility? Cancer? Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. I have received specialty training in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center. I imploy innovative practices: EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation, to improve the lives of her patients.
(414) 939-7931 View (414) 939-7931
Photo of Brian Quick, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Brian Quick
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
I use a combination of EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-based parts work to address mental wellness.
It is ok to ask for help! I specialize in counseling adults and teens who experience unwanted thoughts, feel overcome by their emotions, or are battling anxiety and depression caused by life challenges and trauma. With over 6 years of working in the mental health field, I have experience addressing: men's issues; life adjustment and stress; intrusive thinking; mood and emotional regulation; relationship and communication concerns; motivation; issues related to gender and sexuality; LGBTQ+ identity; and spirituality. I work well with those motivated to understand themselves better, who wish to take steps towards healing and growth.
I use a combination of EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-based parts work to address mental wellness.
It is ok to ask for help! I specialize in counseling adults and teens who experience unwanted thoughts, feel overcome by their emotions, or are battling anxiety and depression caused by life challenges and trauma. With over 6 years of working in the mental health field, I have experience addressing: men's issues; life adjustment and stress; intrusive thinking; mood and emotional regulation; relationship and communication concerns; motivation; issues related to gender and sexuality; LGBTQ+ identity; and spirituality. I work well with those motivated to understand themselves better, who wish to take steps towards healing and growth.
(262) 800-4285 View (262) 800-4285
Photo of Carol L Sokovich, MA, LPC, NCC, RN, Counselor
Carol L Sokovich
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
I am a certified brainspotting therapist and also trained in EMDR and incorporate these evidence-based practices into traditional talk therapy to expedite the healing of trauma, anxiety, depression, and areas of life where you feel stuck.
Seeking help is intimidating and uncertain. It is a hard step, and you have already made the courageous move to scan therapist bios. Your life is precious and worth the fight, so please find a therapist and make an appointment. If you choose me, you will find a therapist who is friendly, non-judgemental, and passionate about helping you make peace with your past and build hope for the future.
I am a certified brainspotting therapist and also trained in EMDR and incorporate these evidence-based practices into traditional talk therapy to expedite the healing of trauma, anxiety, depression, and areas of life where you feel stuck.
Seeking help is intimidating and uncertain. It is a hard step, and you have already made the courageous move to scan therapist bios. Your life is precious and worth the fight, so please find a therapist and make an appointment. If you choose me, you will find a therapist who is friendly, non-judgemental, and passionate about helping you make peace with your past and build hope for the future.
(920) 289-8892 View (920) 289-8892
Photo of Krin Kramer - Krin Kramer Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krin Kramer Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018
I am passionate about using EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) to assist clients struggling with performance blocks, PTSD, complex trauma, complicated grief, pet grief, sexual abuse, adjustment, relationship trauma, medical trauma, creative flow and addictions. Shadow work can be incredibly effective when seeking assistance with subconscious blocks.
I am passionate about using EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) to assist clients struggling with performance blocks, PTSD, complex trauma, complicated grief, pet grief, sexual abuse, adjustment, relationship trauma, medical trauma, creative flow and addictions. Shadow work can be incredibly effective when seeking assistance with subconscious blocks.
(920) 520-2901 View (920) 520-2901
Photo of Kelley Steeves, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Steeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pewaukee, WI 53072
I use techniques from EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, I-CBT, and Schema Therapy.
I have a passion for helping clients get unstuck from things holding them back. Whether it's finding and keeping relationships, worries about the future getting in the way of living life now, or past traumatic or unpleasant experiences that are keeping you up at night. I work best with adults and couples who are ready to dig into the work, coming out the other side with a life filled with joy and meaning. OCD, relationship issues, personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum women, anxiety, trauma and depression are my specialties.
I use techniques from EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, I-CBT, and Schema Therapy.
I have a passion for helping clients get unstuck from things holding them back. Whether it's finding and keeping relationships, worries about the future getting in the way of living life now, or past traumatic or unpleasant experiences that are keeping you up at night. I work best with adults and couples who are ready to dig into the work, coming out the other side with a life filled with joy and meaning. OCD, relationship issues, personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum women, anxiety, trauma and depression are my specialties.
(262) 447-4676 View (262) 447-4676
Photo of Lori R Fairbairn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori R Fairbairn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pewaukee, WI 53072
dating, marriage prep, marriage issues, parenting, separation, or divorce, trauma (EMDR), neurodivergent relationships (ADHD or high functioning Autism), co-parenting/blended families, Alzheimer diagnosis, anxiety, depression and grief.
Life not going quite as smoothly as you hoped? Relationship not as fulfilling as it was in the early days? Struggling with past hurts and trauma? Or feeling less motivated or more anxious? My passion to explore, learn, and help others, motivates me to find the best ways to help you become a better, happier, more fulfilled you. Truly, I believe transformation and change is possible through your own self-discovery and connection with others. I combine my humor and straight forward approach with a safe and encouraging environment. Together we work on goals and a plan for you to move forward to great opportunities for change!
dating, marriage prep, marriage issues, parenting, separation, or divorce, trauma (EMDR), neurodivergent relationships (ADHD or high functioning Autism), co-parenting/blended families, Alzheimer diagnosis, anxiety, depression and grief.
Life not going quite as smoothly as you hoped? Relationship not as fulfilling as it was in the early days? Struggling with past hurts and trauma? Or feeling less motivated or more anxious? My passion to explore, learn, and help others, motivates me to find the best ways to help you become a better, happier, more fulfilled you. Truly, I believe transformation and change is possible through your own self-discovery and connection with others. I combine my humor and straight forward approach with a safe and encouraging environment. Together we work on goals and a plan for you to move forward to great opportunities for change!
(262) 746-7153 View (262) 746-7153
Lisa McLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
Lisa combines evidence-based therapeutic strategies starting with a client-centered approach while combining cognitive, mindfulness skills, DBT, EMDR, behavioral and supportive therapies to empower the client to reach their goals.
Lisa McLean is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in the field for over 30 years in a variety of settings. Lisa s approach to psychotherapy is client-centered and eclectic based on the client s needs and goals of therapy. Lisa provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults with an emphasis on treating anxiety and mood disorders, interpersonal difficulties, grief and loss, suicide risk and prevention, trauma and life transitions.
Lisa combines evidence-based therapeutic strategies starting with a client-centered approach while combining cognitive, mindfulness skills, DBT, EMDR, behavioral and supportive therapies to empower the client to reach their goals.
Lisa McLean is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in the field for over 30 years in a variety of settings. Lisa s approach to psychotherapy is client-centered and eclectic based on the client s needs and goals of therapy. Lisa provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults with an emphasis on treating anxiety and mood disorders, interpersonal difficulties, grief and loss, suicide risk and prevention, trauma and life transitions.
(262) 588-4190 View (262) 588-4190
Photo of Jefferson D Ferguson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jefferson D Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pewaukee, WI 53072
I am certified in EMDR.
If you are looking at this, chances are that you will need support for you and/or your loved one. I am a licensed practicing therapist and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and family issues. I have been working all of my career (20 years) trying to help cultivate that "family environment" that we all strive for. I work with parents and children to help change the entire environment to nurture maximum growth in the person as well as in the relationships that the person has. I am highly qualified to work with you and your family.
I am certified in EMDR.
If you are looking at this, chances are that you will need support for you and/or your loved one. I am a licensed practicing therapist and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and family issues. I have been working all of my career (20 years) trying to help cultivate that "family environment" that we all strive for. I work with parents and children to help change the entire environment to nurture maximum growth in the person as well as in the relationships that the person has. I am highly qualified to work with you and your family.
(262) 457-7961 View (262) 457-7961
Photo of Pamela Dockstader Ortiz, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License, Psychologist
Pamela Dockstader Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018  (Online Only)
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
(630) 489-6227 View (630) 489-6227
Photo of Shannon Westphal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Westphal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delafield, WI 53018
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment.
Do you have difficulties finding joy in your life, not feeling good enough, or feeling disconnected from those around you? Do the experiences from your past seem to somehow repeat themselves or continue to impact the life you wish to live now? If any of these statements connect with you, I am so glad you are taking this first step to find a therapist. It can take such courage to reach out and try to find someone you can trust to help.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment.
Do you have difficulties finding joy in your life, not feeling good enough, or feeling disconnected from those around you? Do the experiences from your past seem to somehow repeat themselves or continue to impact the life you wish to live now? If any of these statements connect with you, I am so glad you are taking this first step to find a therapist. It can take such courage to reach out and try to find someone you can trust to help.
(920) 689-5721 View (920) 689-5721
Photo of Daniel Gospodarek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Gospodarek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Colgate, WI 53017
Clients come looking for a therapist who can offer the warmth, safety and compassion needed for trauma recovery paired with EMDR and Somatic Experiencing therapies.
Trauma leaves us feeling numb and hopeless from ourselves and others. You’re someone who deeply desires safety with yourself and others but still find yourself plagued by trauma, feeling out of control of your emotions and reactions, and feeling shame that you can’t 'get it together.' You have an idea of how you want to show up in your relationships and life but have no idea how to get there. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to no longer give trauma the final say. You’re ready to feel more grounded and safe and therefore have the relationships, job, and connections you ultimately desire. I want to help you get there.
Clients come looking for a therapist who can offer the warmth, safety and compassion needed for trauma recovery paired with EMDR and Somatic Experiencing therapies.
Trauma leaves us feeling numb and hopeless from ourselves and others. You’re someone who deeply desires safety with yourself and others but still find yourself plagued by trauma, feeling out of control of your emotions and reactions, and feeling shame that you can’t 'get it together.' You have an idea of how you want to show up in your relationships and life but have no idea how to get there. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to no longer give trauma the final say. You’re ready to feel more grounded and safe and therefore have the relationships, job, and connections you ultimately desire. I want to help you get there.
(262) 537-5198 View (262) 537-5198
EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.